In Focus: Libya – December 2024 by Diplomacy&Commerce magazine

December 2024 / Janary 2025

Libya

REViViNG

Libya-SERbia COOPERaTiON FOR a STRONGER FUTURE

H.E. Mr. Mohamed O. A. Ghalboun

Ambassador of Libya to Serbia

SHaPiNG

LIBYA’S FUTURE THROUGH UNiTy aND PROGRESS

Mohamed Hammouda

Spokesman of the Government of National Unity

REbUiLDiNG OUR COUNTRy WiTH a FOCUS ON EDUCaTiON, HEaLTH, aND SPORTS

Ibrahim Takita

The Head of the Administrative Centers Development Authority

SHAPING LIBYA’S WORKFORCE aND FUTURE OPPORTUNiTiES

Ali Al-Abed Al-Reda Abu Azoum

Minister of Labour

DIPLOMACY&COMMERCE TEAM

Robert Čoban and Žikica Milošević, with Yousef from the Libyan Embassy in Belgrade and hosts visiting Leptis Magna

Photo: Mladen Sekulić

InFocus LIbYA

DECEMbER 2024 / JANARY 2025

SPECIAL EDITION OF MAGAZINE

Libya

We have prepared a special edition of InFocus Libya in collaboration with the Embassy of Libya in Serbia on the occasion of Libya’s Independence Day on 24 December 2024.

Thanks to H.E Mohamed O. A. Ghalboun, Ambassador of Libya to Serbia, Yousef Aboshala, Counsellor in the Embassy, and Dragan Petrović, official translator, from the Embassy of Libya to Serbia, and the Government of National Unity, who supported this project.

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Publisher COLOR MEDIA EVENTS Novi Sad

Partner THE EMbASSY OF LIbYA IN THE REPUbLIC OF SERbIA

Director ROBERT ČOBAN robert.coban@color.rs

Editor in Chief DRAGAN NIKOLIĆ dragan.nikolic@color.rs

Project manager ANDREJ KLEMENČIĆ

Journalist ŽIKICA MILOŠEVIĆ

Photography Mladen Sekulić, Jovana Kvržić, Shutterstock, Embassy of Libya to Serbia

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C e n t r o b i r o

COLOR PRINT Novi Sad

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Belgrade Office: Vlajkovićeva 6 11000 Belgrade, Serbia Phone: + 381 63 432 392

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Diplomacy & Commerce / glavni i odgovorni urednik: Dragan Nikolić, 2016, (mart)-.Novi Sad: Color Media Events, 2016 - , -33cm Mesečno ISSN 2466-3808 = Diplomacy & Commerce COBISS.SR-ID 303269895

REVIVING LIBYA-SERBIA COOPERATION FOR A STRONGER FUTURE

H.E. MOHAMED O. A. GHALBOUN Ambassador of Libya to Serbia

SHAPING LIBYA’S FUTURE THROUGH UNITY AND PROGRESS MOHAMED HAMMOUDA

Spokesman of the Government of National Unity

REBUILDING OUR COUNTRY WITH A FOCUS ON EDUCATION, HEALTH, AND SPORTS

IBRAHIM TAKITA

The Head of the Administrative Centers Development Authority

SHAPING LIBYA’S WORKFORCE AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

ALI AL-ABED AL-REDA ABU AZOUM Minister of Labour

LIBYAN TOURISM OCHRE AND BLUE by Žikica Milošević

MY LIBYAN ADVENTURE JOVANA KVRŽIĆ Travel blogger

24 HISTORY

LEPTIS MAGNA UNVEILED, A JEWEL OF ROMAN AFRICA by Žikica Milošević

REVIVING LIBYA-SERBIA COOPERATION FOR A STRONGER FUTURE

Ambassador Mohamed Ghalboun on Opportunities in Trade, Tourism, and Energy Partnerships

In this special edition of InFocus Libya, we spoke with H.E. Mohamed O. A. Ghalboun, the Ambassador of Libya to Serbia, to explore the renewed efforts to strengthen the longstanding ties between Libya and Serbia. With a shared history of cooperation in construction, healthcare, and energy, the Ambassador highlights opportunities to revitalise bilateral relations through enhanced economic collaboration, tourism development, and cultural exchange. This conversation underscores the potential for strategic partnerships to support mutual growth and prosperity in both nations.

LIBYA SEEKS TO ATTRACT SERBIAN COMPANIES AND INTRODUCE THEM INTO THE LIBYAN LABOUR MARKET. SERBIAN COMPANIES HAVE LONG EXPERIENCE COOPERATING WITH LIBYA, AND I WOULD LIKE TO POINT OUT THAT SERBIA HAS EXPERTISE IN CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING

Libya and the former Yugoslavia shared a period of intense and fruitful relations. How can Serbia and Libya build on this historical foundation to revive and strengthen economic cooperation today?

Political relations are traditionally good and friendly. Libya was one of the most important Arab partners of the former Yugoslavia and Serbia during the decadeslong rule of Muammar Gaddafi. The backbone of this cooperation in various fields were construction, healthcare and military industry. The political dialogue had been halted in recent years due to the situation in Libya. Still, based on the historical relations between the two friendly countries, the State of Libya desires to strengthen the bonds of cooperation and develop them in various fields, including education, healthcare, economy, trade and energy. We look forward to strengthening these relations more broadly.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF TRADE AND INVESTMENT RELATIONS BETWEEN LIBYA AND SERBIA IS SIGNIFICANT, AND THE GOVERNMENT OF NATIONAL UNITY IS READY TO PROVIDE ALL THE NECESSARY FACILITIES TO SERBIAN COMPANIES AND INVESTORS WISHING TO ENTER THE LIBYAN MARKET

For example, Serbian exports in 2021 amounted to 19,453,000 Euro, and imports amounted to 6,436,000 Euro.

There are also several bilateral agreements between the two countries:

• First of all, there is the Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement with Libya that had entered into force on the 12th of March 1975;

• There is also an agreement between Serbia, Montenegro and Libya on the promotion, guarantee and protection of the investments; this agreement entered into force on the 23rd of April 2008;

• An agreement between the Republic of Serbia and Libya on avoidance of double taxation concerning income tax (entered into force on the 08th of June 2010) and

• Finally, a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Education between Serbia and Libya entered into force on June 14, 2010.

What initiatives or agreements are currently underway to reinvigorate the partnership between Libya and Serbia?

Firstly, there is a coordination

with the Serbian side to host a Serbian exhibition in Tripoli next year. Libya has signed a cooperation agreement with Serbia in training between the Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia and International Cooperation of Libya, which aims to enhance cooperation in diplomatic training and the exchange of expertise between the two countries. We also have the Agreement on the Cooperation in the Field of Higher Education between our two countries.

Both Libya and Serbia face unique challenges in rebuilding their economies. What sectors offer the most promise for cooperation, particularly infrastructure, energy, and trade?

To be precise, the transportation and roads and the housing and utilities sectors are among these.

LIBYA

SEEKS

TO TRANSFORM ITS COASTS, CITIES, AND DESERTS INTO TOURIST RESORTS THAT WILL ATTRACT MILLIONS OF TOURISTS ANNUALLY. OPERATING FLIGHTS BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES WOULD ENRICH THE COOPERATION IN TOURISM BETWEEN LIBYA AND SERBIA

Serbian companies have historically been involved in infrastructure and development projects in Libya. How do you see the role of Serbian expertise in Libya’s ongoing reconstruction efforts?

Libya seeks to attract Serbian companies and introduce them into the Libyan labour market. Serbian companies have a long history of cooperating with Libya, and I would like to point out that Serbia has expertise in construction and building.

What opportunities exist for Serbian businesses to invest or expand operations in Libya and vice versa?

There are opportunities for investment in alternative energy and electricity in the agricultural sector, higher education, technical and technological education, and economic and trade sectors. Furthermore, hosting the EXPO 2027 in Belgrade will put Serbia in the spotlight and change the world’s view. Serbia is currently one of Europe’s highest countries in attracting investments and modernising technology and digitalisation. We will discuss bilateral relations and mechanisms for enhancing economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. At our meetings, we discussed the arrangements for holding the Serbian Industries Exhibition, scheduled in January 2025, and the two sides also agreed to have a Libyan-Serbian business people forum on the sidelines of this exhibition.

The development of trade and investment relations between Libya and Serbia is significant, and the Government of National Unity is ready to provide all the necessary facilities to Serbian companies and investors wishing to enter the Libyan market. Establishing genuine partnerships between the private sectors in the two countries is important to support economic cooperation.

In addition, the Serbian Ambassador to Libya also confirmed the desire of Serbian companies to work in Libya in several fields such as agriculture, industry, health, and education, stressing the Serbian government’s willingness to enhance cooperation with the Libyan Government of National Unity. The Serbian Minister of Trade also invited the Libyan Minister of Economy and Trade to visit the Republic of Serbia.

We have already coordinated some of that, but the visit was postponed due to the resignation of the Serbian minister.

Inviting Libyan companies to participate in Expo 2027 will allow them to attract more new investments, learn about the comprehensive reform and infrastructure package, and contribute effectively to projects of common interest.

Libya has a rich cultural heritage and natural attractions, while Serbia’s tourism sector is growing. How can both countries collaborate to promote tourism and cultural exchange between their peoples?

The first model could participate in tourism exhibitions, and we will support the tourism team in visiting all tourist areas throughout Libya.

What steps are being taken to improve Libya’s tourism infrastructure, and how might Serbia contribute to these developments?

Through several plans it has developed, Libya seeks to transform its coasts, cities and deserts into tourist resorts that will attract millions of tourists annually.

photos: Courtesy of the Embassy of Libya to Serbia

According to sources from the General Tourism Authority, Libya attracted 125,480 tourists during the previous year. Libya also has 50 sites along its coast that are ready for tourism investment, with equal opportunities for Libyans and foreign investors.

The report issued by the Libyan General Tourism Authority indicated that local investment contributes to these projects by 37.8 per cent. In comparison, foreign investment contributes 26.3 per cent and joint investment (Libyan and foreign) by 35.9 per cent. At the same time, according to some sources from the sector of tourism, there is an increase in the volume of foreign investments in the country due to the many laws passed by Tripoli to encourage foreign investors to implement dozens of investment projects, whether through foreigners or in partnership with the local private sector.

WE SEEK TO MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO BENEFIT FROM SERBIAN EXPERTISE IN RENEWABLE ENERGY, OIL, AND GAS. SERBIA IMPORTS OIL FROM LIBYA, AND THERE IS COOPERATION IN THIS FIELD WITH SERBIA

Operating flights between the two countries would enrich the cooperation in tourism between Libya and Serbia. Libya enjoys a good climate and has a diverse tourist offer, which can enhance the exchange increase in the tourist sector between the two countries. Serbian companies could be involved in investing in these projects.

However, some official Libyan sources indicate that the infrastructure of this sector is still weak, especially regarding hotel rooms (with an overall number of 12,000), of which only 2,000 are suitable for tourist accommodation. Also, out of the seven thousand tourist restaurants and cafes spread throughout the country, only 500 can benefit from tourist services.

Libya is one of the countries overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, rich in many ancient Roman cities along its long coast, such as Tripoli, Leptis Magna, and Sabratha, and the Greek cities located in the Green Mountain region, which is located 1,200 km east of Tripoli, as well as desert tourism in southern Libya, which is an area rich in drawings and rock carvings engraved on the mountains of Acacus and Matkhandoush.

Libya is a significant player in the energy market. Are there discussions about energy partnerships between Libya and Serbia, particularly in oil, gas, or renewable energy? Yes, we seek to make every effort to benefit from Serbian expertise in renewable energy, oil, and gas. Serbia imports

oil from Libya, and there is cooperation in this field with Serbia. We also seek to enable Serbian companies to benefit from their expertise in this field.

What is your vision for the Libyan-Serbian partnership over the next decade, and what are the main milestones you aim to achieve during your tenure as Ambassador?

First, I would point to strengthening the commercial and investment economy, then to our goal to bring back Serbian companies so that they can complete their projects in Libya, as well as to strengthening the cooperation in the field of healthcare and health sector, which should also include enhancing expertise in the field of healthcare. We should build bridges of communication directly between health institutions in the two countries, benefiting from health and scientific knowledge and attracting Serbian health companies with modern innovations in the field of healthcare, which should contribute to supporting sustainable development strategies for the health sector in both countries. In addition, we should also work on activating previous agreements, especially in the fields of economy, trade, investment, education and renewable energy.

Finally, let me also mention that reopening the Serbian Embassy in Tripoli at the end of April 2024 is an important step that will strengthen diplomatic relations between Libya and Serbia and facilitate communication between our two friendly nations. This step will surely be a massive contribution to achieving any future initiative.

SHAPING LIBYA’S FUTURE THROUGH UNITY AND PROGRESS

Optimism, cooperation, and clean energy at the heart of Libya’s development journey

In this special InFocus Libya edition of Diplomacy & Commerce magazine from Serbia, we have the privilege of speaking with Mohamed Hammouda, Spokesman of the Government of National Unity of Libya. As Libya continues its journey toward unity, progress, and sustainable development, Mr. Hammouda sheds light on the country’s strategic plans, its vision for international partnerships, and the potential to revitalise the historically strong ties between Libya and Serbia. This conversation highlights opportunities for flourishing cooperation in energy, education, healthcare, and cultural exchange, marking a new chapter in the relationship between these two nations.

How do you see Libya’s future? Is a united country within the pre-war borders possible in the near future?

First of all, thank you for coming here: we would like to see more Serbs and more people coming to see Libya and the development that is happening. About the future of Libya- we can only be positive – we have learned that if you are optimistic, you will achieve the attitude first, and with hard work, the dream will come true. Since 2021, we have witnessed this progress, and regarding Libyan unity – Libyan people have always been united, and Libyan institutions at middle and low levels are all

LIBYAN PEOPLE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN UNITED. WHAT DIVIDES US IS THE POWER STRUGGLE, NOT SOCIETAL OR REGIONAL DIFFERENCES

united. We still have this political division, and hopefully, we will overcome it.

I have heard that the people are very friendly. Is that true when they hear the accent of the other part of Libya?

As I said, the people have always been united – what divides Libya is the power struggle. But if we look at Libyan society, it is one people – visiting each other daily. And we saw the catastrophic floods in Derna, how all the Libyans immediately jumped to help, offering money, goods, anything. We feel each other and never see Libya as „East“ and „West“. It is very misleading: the authorities here in Libya are from everywhere: East, West, South, every town. The same happens in Benghazi – it is never a matter of East, West, or social divisions, but rather political differences.

Number One topic in the last year is the crisis in Gaza and Lebanon. What is your official position on that?

WE AIM TO USE SOLAR POWER FOR OURSELVES AND EXPORT GAS TO EUROPE,

CONTRIBUTING TO GREENER ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Libya has always had the same position – we are for the right of the independence of nations, for free Palestine. We have always supported the two-state solution, with Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. What we are witnessing today is a shame in this day and age: to see the children and people dying daily in front of all the people, the genocide is happening.

Have you also condemned the Hamas attack on the 7th of October and taken hostages?

During that event, there was no official statement from the Libyan government.

Last week, your government confirmed its interest in joining BRICS and the prospects of cooperation

with the member states. How would it affect your relations with the USA and the EU?

Libya is an independent country. What we look at is our interest and what benefits the Libyan people. We maintain good relations with all nations. Still, all these international organisations are beneficial because the world should be closer to each other, more united, and have more solidarity among people. COVID-19 taught us how apart our world is and how we are not sufficiently cooperative and interconnected enough. We must be all that to overcome major global threats like climate change. What happened in Derna is because of climate change, and what happened in Spain is because of that. The world needs to be more united, and BRICS is one of the ways to do that. It is a very promising coalition, and Libya is interested but has still not formally applied.

Recently, your government supported all efforts to achieve stability and security to combat terrorism and extremism in Africa. In your opinion, what is Africa’s biggest problem today?

I cannot speak from the point of view of all countries, but I can talk for Libya. Libya has an excellent position, which is a blessing for us, but it also puts us in a position between the South and North worlds. All the people from Africa looking for a better life and future and thinking that Europe is a go-to place have to pass through Libya. Not all of them, those who stay in Libya and work here, are much more numerous than those trying to reach Europe. I don’t have the official number of people living here, but it is significant, and we are facing it alone. We need joint efforts between Libya, Europe, and the Sahel countries to find a solution. Developing job opportunities in the source countries is how to keep these people in their countries and provide them with a better life. But leaving people to die in the sea is inhumane, something that we do not accept. This is our solution, and PM Dbeibeh has had conferences and meetings in Italy and Sahel countries to find a more comprehensive solution. Libya is rich in energy – we have over 3000 hours of sun and gas and are the 5th country by oil reserves. Libya has much potential in energy, especially clean energy. And Europe requires that energy, especially now after the war in Ukraine. Libyan energy is very suitable for its position, cost, quality, and infrastructure – the Green Stream to Italy. The challenge is how to invest in that energy. We increased our oil production since we think we can spare

LIBYA IS EVOLVING AND NEEDS COOPERATION. SERBIA IS ONE COUNTRY THAT IS ALWAYS WELCOME TO PLAY A PART IN OUR GROWTH

more for development once we increase the oil production. We have increased our gas production and use our infrastructure to pump that gas to Europe. And instead of using our gas as energy for us, we plan to use solar power for ourselves and export that gas, thus contributing to greener energy. The biggest challenge is that clean energy needs investments. We want international companies to come to Libya and invest; hence, we will have the energy to give to others. Now, we have an agreement for clean energy with Malta and Italy and a pilot project with Total Energy. We also have the Clean Energy Authority, which has a clear strategy. We have assigned specific plots to attract foreign investors. We have made very concrete steps.

About Africa, do you feel any danger about what is happening in Central Africa, on your southern borders, like terrorism?

Libya has suffered from terrorism, from ISIS, for a couple of years. We have shown to our partners that terrorism is not accepted in Libya. We have lost many lives to make all of our

cities free from ISIS. Thankfully, we have succeeded, but the threat is always here. And what is happening in the neighbourhood, like Sudan, is dangerous and challenging.

How do you see the future of Libya-Serbia relations and bilateral cooperation? How can we bring back Tito’s era’s golden age and glory?

Libyans and Serbians have a lot in common. Because of education, many Libyans have been to Serbia to study. There was security cooperation as well. Libya is now evolving and in

WE PREFER CULTURAL TOURISM OVER MASS TOURISM TO PRESERVE OUR HERITAGE AND SHARE THE TRUE SPIRIT OF LIBYA WITH THE WORLD

need of lots of cooperation. Serbia is one country that is always welcome to play a part in it. During Tito’s and Gaddafi’s era, we were part of the Non-Aligned Movement and closely cooperated. It all still applies to the freedom and independence of nations and the right to self-determination. We haven’t changed.

In which area do you see the most opportunities?

Education, health. In this period, Libya is going through privatisation, and the private sector is taking over a large chunk of the economy. Also, the government has started with cooperation in health – we need pharmaceutical companies and skilled medical workers – to have a better government in the health sector. We have begun the Revive & Development project for investments since we had a pause from 2011 to 2021. We plan to rebuild schools, hospitals, infrastructure, roads. It is a huge programme. In all these areas, we are open to anyone who

can guarantee reasonable prices and quality, and companies from Serbia are invited. Libya is frequently presented in a bad light, and the reality is much better – we want to spread the optimistic message and show the new, true Libya.

What about tourism? You have 2000km of the coast. Can we expect to see a new Tunisia or a new Egypt? We are 7 million people, a small population. We are not into mass tourism since we want to preserve our culture. So, we are more interested in cultural tourism in the future.

IBRAHIM TAKITA The Head of the Administrative Centers Development Authority

REBUILDING OUR COUNTRY WITH A FOCUS ON EDUCATION, HEALTH, AND SPORTS

Driving Libya’s Renewal Through Visionary Leadership and Strategic Development

Libya has long been neglected or devastated by various sanctions and conflicts. The time has come for reconstruction, and a significant part of this responsibility falls to the Administrative Centers Development Authority. During our editorial team’s visit to Libya in November 2024, we had the great pleasure of speaking with Mr. Ibrahim Takit, the head of this institution, to discuss its crucial role in rebuilding the nation.

What is, in fact, The Head of the Administrative Centers Development Authority? We had The Direction for Rebuilding of the Country in 1999-2000, so are we discussing the same thing in Lybia? How many regional branches are there?

The centre designs the ideas and turns them into reality and fundamentals on the ground. Since the Government of National Unity started in 2021, we have started paying much attention to the very important sides: health care and education, which includes new stadiums, youth, and sports.

WE HAVE PRIORITISED EDUCATION AND HEALTHCARE, STARTING WITH REBUILDING 450 HALTED SCHOOL PROJECTS AND DELIVERING 25 PRIMARY HEALTHCARE UNITS

The Administrative Centers Development Authority was founded in 1989, and right now, we are in the process of building the administrative centres or branches. The main branch of the centre is in the Falah Tripoli; there are about 13 offices around Libya. The main centres are Tripoli, Misrata, Benghazi, and the northwest and western mountains. There are two main executive branches: the Supervising and Research Branches. And other branches like Supporting, Managing, Revising and Supervising how they work. The main work here is to supervise and ensure that the projects continue working through reconstruction or by creating and developing new routes. Regarding the existing hospitals, it’s about reconstruction, fixing them, and seeing what they need, and if we talk about new hospitals, it is about creating new institutes. We also cover the educational side, like schools.

SINCE 2011, INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY HALTED, LEAVING US TO MANAGE GROWING POPULATIONS WITHOUT MATCHING DEVELOPMENT

We come from Serbia, which went through terrible wars in the ‘90s. The final thing was the bombing by the Americans and NATO in 1999 when the country was damaged. We know exactly what it means since we had the direction for the country’s reconstruction after that. We had to replace many bridges; we had to build a lot of railways and houses and everything. So, there is much work to be done in Libya after the events that happened in 2011. What are your priorities for the next two years? What are the most burning questions?

Regarding construction, most of the work is to build schools in Libya, including the 1500 schools constructed by the UN. Our main object is to create new schools and reconstruct the old ones, but mainly to build new schools, like the 1500 schools that have already been built. Other aspects include youth and sports, such as founding new arenas and sports facilities. As well as some important sectors, like social projects, such as the buildings for social affairs, administrative offices, and buildings for the government. The Administrative Centers Development Authority is the vehicle that moves forward the ideas and plans for the governments.

I am glad that I am talking to someone who has been through something similar and can understand. I want to emphasise two points other than what you have mentioned. In Libya, when the revolution happened in 2011, much infrastructure was destroyed, including many institutes and many buildings. And a lot of institutes and infrastructures have gone out of work. Since 2011 and between 2011 and 2018, all the projects were stopped altogether, complicating the matter even more. There was an increase in population without an increase in infrastructure, which made putting a plan even more complex.

So we set our priorities in the National Unity Government on many aspects, like water supply, founding infrastructures like roads, and reviving the educational system and health care. We started working on the public services beneath our centre, which are education and health care, along with some

sports arenas and infrastructure related to sports and administrative buildings associated with the local authorities.

Give me some numbers, please.

In 2011, the educational system, when the revolution started, there were 450 schools under construction. All of them have stopped. So, our first step was to work on these schools and these projects. And we calculated how many more we needed besides those. We started working on the 413 that has been stopped. We also started working on another programme for 1,500 schools around Libya. The first step of it is 500 schools. To sum up, out of 416, we have finished 295 schools: 206 started working from the first step. This sums up the education side.

Regarding healthcare, there are about 50 hospitals. Sixteen started working, and the remaining are still being worked on step-by-step. Besides those, there is a new programme for 29 hospitals and around 19 compound clinics; 7 are active and working. There are primary healthcare units. We have delivered 25 of them. These are the two major branches that we paid attention to.

Regarding sports, we re-innovated and started working on three big primary projects: the main arena of Tripoli, an arena in Aziziyah city, and an arena in Misrata, plus 10 closed gymnasiums. Our target is to build 10 more arenas and 40 closed gymnasiums.

Yes, idle youth is dangerous. They have to go to school and practice sports to be occupied by something creative.

IDLE YOUTH IS DANGEROUS— THEY MUST BE ENGAGED IN EDUCATION AND SPORTS TO FOSTER CREATIVITY AND HEALTH

The nation’s health is the most important thing, so, understandably, it is your priority. There are substantial water deposits under the Sahara, and there were plans to construct water supplies underground so as not to depend on desalinisation.

It is not connected to my department, but I can give you a general idea about it. There is an institute that deals with synthetic man-made rivers. It’s the same department that took over the man-made rivers that used to run the old regime. It took the water from the southeast, the south, and the southwest of Libya through thousands of miles of pipelines and delivered it to all the cities, either on the coast or in the mountains that lack water.

Yesterday and today, we visited Homs and Misrata and saw a lot of traffic and new roads being built. But petrol is cheap, and many people have their own cars. Although there are only 7 million people in Libya, many cars exist. The traffic jams are massive. One of your priorities is widening the roads and making them better. Is it your responsibility to find ways to reduce the traffic jams and widen the roads?

It’s not in my area of responsibility, but the government has already started working on a new road network. It will be the duty of the Transportation Developing Center. They have a solid plan, and what you see on the road proves they are already working on it. We are studying and researching how to ease the traffic inside the cities, and this research will help us find a way to organise it. I’m sure you know that the traffic system is not random and has a purpose. But there are many cars because moving from one place to another is cheaper. This massive project requires a lot of setting, discussion, and taking experience from our neighbouring countries because they have higher gas prices.

But Libya is rich in oil and gas, and the prices are stabilised. Also, there is a considerable demand, especially in Western Europe, after the disruption with Russian gas and the war in Ukraine. So you are in a good position to rebuild the country. Who are your main partners in that? Who are your main partners? Maybe some foreign companies, like companies from Serbia, used to do that. Because 30-40 years ago, our ambassador told us that during Yugoslavia, there were 40,000 Yugoslav workers and company personnel in Libya working. Everybody from my school had a friend whose parents were living in Libya, Algeria, or Iraq, working. So it was a massive place for our construction workers. We have a solid base for future cooperation.

Now Libya is very welcoming for all companies to come here, especially the ones that are coming now at the beginning since we already did the reconstruction. We have been running for two years, but we have special requirements, especially from companies for water supply and road construction and building schools and healthcare systems. We know that the labour from Serbia, either engineers or doctors in healthcare and builders, are very efficient. We’ve worked with them before, so the road for them is ready. We won’t need to convince people because they are already convinced. And they know how good they are and what they do.

Big infrastructure projects are always under special spotlight because of potential corruption or something like that. Do you have somebody like Elon Musk, who will soon be in the United States, to control this kind of government spending on infrastructure because of potential corruption?

LIBYA IS READY TO WELCOME COMPANIES, ESPECIALLY FROM SERBIA,

AS WE ALREADY KNOW AND TRUST THEIR EXPERTISE

IN CONSTRUCTION AND HEALTHCARE

We have an institute that supervises this kind of spending, but we’re not at Trump’s level yet. We hope that they have good morals and that we will be able to have “1,000 Elon Musks.” Hopefully, people will realise that being honest and working is the only solution to giving your people a better life. We hope that this meeting will be a point for more communication in the future.

by Robert

ALI AL-ABED AL-REDA ABU AZOUM

Minister of Labour

SHAPING LIBYA’S WORKFORCE AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

Minister Ali Al-Reda on Labour

Market Reform and Rebuilding

Strong Partnerships

In this InFocus Libya edition of Diplomacy & Commerce magazine, we delve into an engaging conversation with Ali Al-Abed Al-Reda Abu Azoum, Libya’s Minister of Labour. Focusing on reforming the labour market, reintegrating former fighters into civilian roles, and fostering international cooperation, the Minister outlines Libya’s ambitious economic growth and stability plans.

Highlighting Libya’s rich potential and the importance of rebuilding connections with nations like Serbia, this interview offers insight into the country’s efforts to shape a brighter future for its workforce and economy.

How many foreign workers do you have in Libya?

Currently, we have about 3 million foreign workers in Libya, mainly from Egypt and African countries: Chad, Mali, Ghana, Tunisia, and the Sahel and Saharan countries. About a million of them are registered; the others are not. We are now forcing people to register. I faced

WE ARE TRAINING THOUSANDS OF YOUNG PEOPLE TO REINTEGRATE INTO CIVILIAN JOBS, HELPING THEM CONTRIBUTE TO LIBYA’S GROWING PRIVATE SECTOR

this situation when I became a minister. They enter Libya according to agreements with corporations. And second, we have 2,4 million workers for government and corporations in Libya. And the Libyan market is very strong because we face both the European continent and Africa, and we have commercial ties with both. The Mediterranean coast is about 2,000 km long. And the private section has also grown. Now, after several years of the Government of National Unity, we are delivering. We have stability because the war has been over since October 2020. Now we have four years without war, it’s good.

We also have many ex-fighters trying to reintegrate and rehabilitate; we have a programme cooperating with the Ministry of Defence. We train thousands of young people for other civilian jobs. They enter the more significant and smaller projects. We trained more than 7,000 young people. Now, they are returning, and they go mainly to the private sector.

What percentage of the Libyan economy is stateowned, and what is privateowned? 50/50? It is nowhere near 50-50%.

Three hundred thousand people are working in the private sector here. However, during Gaddafi, there were almost no private companies. Private companies started during the 1990s, but very few.

And tell me, you are mentioning this migrant situation. Is Libya still on this way from Africa to Lampedusa to Europe, or is it from Tunisia closer to this route?

I have no precise information because the Italian Minister has a number; we don’t count people living in Libya. However, as I see the indication, more people from Tunisia have also arrived in Lampedusa than from Libya. And now, the government is trying to stop them and fight illegal immigration. But now, we are cooperating with IOM; IOM is also working in Libya, and they have many procedures and regulations to stop them. We have signed agreements

OUR POSITIVE EXPERIENCES WITH SERBIAN WORKERS IN THE PAST MOTIVATE US TO REBUILD AND STRENGTHEN THESE PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE FUTURE

with the Ministers of Labour in Niger and with Chad and Egypt. Last week, I signed the deal with the Minister of Labour in Chad. And I want to ask you about the Serbian companies; they had a very strong presence in Libya.

In the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, Serbia, Yugoslavia, and Yugoslavian companies had a significant presence, starting with Tito and after Tito. Unfortunately, everything stopped in the 1990s when there was war in our country, but lots of Africa had Serbian workers all over Africa. How’s the situation now?

We had positive experiences, and we would like to continue with them. We would like some nurses and doctors from Serbia—we sent some staff to Serbia to interview people who applied from there. We are eager to rebuild the country, and our positive experiences from the past are crucial.

OCHRE AND BLUE

Libya is a tourism giant waiting to be discovered

Courtesy of the Government of National Unity of Libya, we visited the country in November, only scratching the surface of what this vast land offers regarding tourism—a glimpse of Tripolitania. Yet even that was enough to reveal the potential of this sleeping tourism giant and to imagine just how impressive it will look once it awakens.

THE RED CASTLE

Naturally, we start with the capital, Tripoli, which boasts a strikingly Mediterranean appearance—a perfect blend of Southern Europe and Saharan Africa. The similarities are noticeable: Serbians and Libyans have experienced remarkably similar cultural influences over the centuries. Libya emerged from Ottoman rule in 1911, while parts of Serbia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Northern Macedonia, Thessaloniki, and much of Greece gained independence in 1912. Does this mean we

lived in the same state for 400 years? Yes, which explains the intertwining of Christian and Islamic civilisations—here, too, you’ll find burek and meatballs. Add to that the influence of nearby Italy (a former colonial power), the cooperation during the Non-Aligned Movement, and socialism, and you’ll

IN THE MAZE OF MEDINA’S

STREETS,

YOU FEEL THE MAGIC OF THE EAST AND THE MEDITERRANEAN

INTERTWINING—RESTAURANTS, SMALL SHOPS, SOUVENIR STANDS, ARTISAN WORKSHOPS, MUSEUMS, GALLERIES, MOSQUES, AND CHURCHES

begin to understand just how incredibly similar Libya and Serbia are at their core.

Tripoli’s most significant and beautiful part is the Medina, home to gems such as the Red Castle (Saraya al-Hamra) and the Arch of Marcus Aurelius. Adjacent to it lies the impressive Martyrs’ Square, surrounded by buildings mainly from the Italian period. It bustles with football fans waving flags, young people, and carriages with ornamented horses.

Many think the name Tripolitania originates from Tripoli, but it’s likely the other way around. Three Phoenician cities were initially established in Libya—Leptis Magna, Sabratha, and Ea (just two letters, known as Oiat in Punic and later Oea in Latin). Collectively, they were referred to as Tripolis (the Three Cities), and the surrounding region became known as Tripolitania (the Land of the Three Cities). Later, the name Tripoli or Tripolis became associated exclusively with the city of Ea.

THE CENTRAL ATTRACTION – THE RED CASTLE

The central attraction of Tripoli is the Red Castle (Saraya al-Hamra), which closely resembles Andalusia. This is no coincidence, as Libyans and Andalusians shared a long history under common caliphates (and occasionally within Iberian kingdoms). During Spain’s Reconquista, Spanish forces advanced deep into North Africa, aiming to Christianise its inhabitants. While they failed in this endeavour, their influence left lasting traces.

In 1510, Tripoli became part of the Kingdom of Aragon, only to be taken over by the Ottomans in 1551. Later, in 1911, the Italians assumed control. The castle housed the Italian governor until 1919, after which it was turned into a museum. 1938, following renovations, a statue of Benito Mussolini on horseback was placed in front of the fortress but was removed in 1942. The Red Castle underwent further renovations between 1982 and 1988.

One of its most remarkable features is the Bastion of Saint George, built in the 16th century. Embedded in its structure is a flagpole from an American sailing ship dating back over 200 years, carrying a fascinating story.

A FASCINATING TALE OF THE FIRST AMERICAN MILITARY INTERVENTION

One of the more intriguing stories tied to Tripoli is the First Barbary War—the very first American military intervention abroad, which began in 1801, just 18 years after the United States was recognised as an independent state in 1783. At the time, Libyan, Algerian, and Moroccan Berbers governed

LIBYA’S MEDITERRANEAN COASTLINE, WITH OVER 2,000 KM OF DIVERSE BEACHES, OFFERS AN UNMATCHED COMBINATION OF TURQUOISE WATERS AND GOLDEN SANDS WAITING TO BE EXPLORED

Beach at the resort

Al Aman Misrata

Tripoli - Port

CULTURAL TOURISM,

PAIRED WITH “A LITTLE SAND AND SEA,” IS EXPECTED TO LEAD THE WAY HERE—SIMILAR TO OMAN. AND HONESTLY, WE CANNOT WAIT FOR THAT DAY

three semi-independent states along North Africa’s coast, nominally under Ottoman control. These states were engaged in “protecting” merchant ships for a fee. While most nations complied with these conditions, the newly independent and proud Americans refused, prompting a military intervention with the support of a few European allies.

In 1803, the American ship Philadelphia was captured and brought to the harbour of Tripoli. Viewing this as a humiliation, the Americans launched a daring nighttime raid in 1804, led by Stephen Decatur and 83 volunteers, setting the ship ablaze. During the attack, 20 Tripolitan soldiers defending the vessel were killed.

The conflict eventually ended with the Treaty of Tripoli in 1805. The Americans withdrew from Derna, exchanged prisoners, paid an additional $60,000 in reparations, and departed the Mediterranean. Yet, one tangible reminder of this conflict remains—the mainmast of Philadelphia. It was installed in the Red Castle (Saraya al-Hamra), which still stands today as a testament to the first nation to go to war with the United States.

Listening to this captivating story as the Mediterranean twilight falls over the fortress, the experience feels almost magical.

THE MEDINA

The central attraction of Tripoli’s Medina is the Arch of Marcus Aurelius, a unique monument providing a surprising connection between Libya and Serbia. Marcus Aurelius died in Sirmium, today’s Sremska Mitrovica in Serbia, tying the histories of our two nations. The arch is particularly unusual due to its “cap”—an octagonal dome at the top, the only one of its

kind worldwide. Constructed initially no later than 165 AD, the arch was restored between 1914 and 1918. Its dating is precise because Marcus Aurelius is referred to as Armenicus (Conqueror of Armenia) on the structure, but not as Medicus or Parthicus (Conqueror of Media and Parthia), titles he earned in 166 AD.

Like in all Muslim countries and port cities, cats are everywhere. Several fantastic restaurants around the Arch of Marcus Aurelius attract tourists and cats alike. The cats roam between the tables, and we even shared food with them.

Medina Tripoli Mosque

Medina Tripoli

MISRATA’S AL-AMAN RESORT, A CITY WITHIN A CITY, SHOWCASES LIBYA’S POTENTIAL FOR HIGH-END TOURISM, BLENDING MODERN LUXURY WITH A UNIQUE CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

The surrounding maze of narrow streets exudes the magic of the East and the Mediterranean, intertwining seamlessly. You’ll find restaurants, small shops, souvenir stands, artisan workshops, museums, galleries, mosques, and churches. A charming Catholic church sits at the heart of the Medina, with an Orthodox church not far away. The area features traditional courtyards, similar to the patios of Spain, enclosed within palace walls to protect them from prying eyes.

The Medina strongly reminded me of Andalusia—a connection reinforced by the nearby Andalusia restaurant, one of the best in the area. It

truly feels like home. And if you miss certain familiar things, locals will understand when you ask for sabun (soap) or peškir (towel).

MISRATA

A glimpse into the future of Libyan tourism awaits in the highly developed city of Misrata, where influences from all corners of the world blend seamlessly. The City Hall itself is a perfect example of this fusion. However, the real breath-taking moment comes as you head to the coast. Libya’s Mediterranean coastline stretches over 2,000 km, much of it sandy, with beaches ranging from secluded coves to turquoise shores, all accompanied by the quintessential “ochre on blue” landscape.

We only managed a brief visit to the newly built AlAman Resort near Misrata, a literal “city within a city” and one of the most modern facilities of its kind in the region. A morning swim in November demonstrated Libya’s year-round potential, but the country, with just 7 million inhabitants, seems keen to avoid the path of mass tourism like Dubai. Instead, it is likely that cultural tourism, paired with “a little sand and sea,” will take the lead—similar to Oman. And honestly, we cannot wait for that day to come.

Photo:

Gimas / Shutterstock

Red castle Tripoli

Tripoli - Main Street

Medina Tripoli narrow street

Jovana Kvržić, one of the leading travel bloggers from the former Yugoslav region, recently visited Libya and introduced her followers to an entirely new world. She shares her experiences with our readers in the special InFocus Libya edition of Diplomacy&Commerce magazine.

How did your Libyan adventure come about? What attracted you to it?

My Libyan adventure happened as part of an agreement with my friends, avid travellers who often explore lesser-known and less safe destinations with me. We heard Libya reopened to tourists after many years and that getting a visa was no longer impossible, so we dove into planning. During the planning phase, a friend of mine, who was in charge of contacting a local agency, came across a man named Sulejman, who is half-Serbian and half-Libyan. Sulejman played a significant role in our decision to go to Libya and encouraged us not to believe everything we read in the media. We travelled through Libya with a local agency, as tourists still need a guide throughout the trip, and special permits are needed to travel between cities.

What did you like the most about Libya (key question— places, food, etc.)?

For me, the most beautiful parts of Libya were the traditional city of Ghadames and the ancient cities of Sabratha and Leptis Magna. It’s simply incredible that these sites remain so well-preserved despite the country’s difficult situ-

MY LIBYAN ADVENTURE

Discovering

Libya Through

Hospitality and Hidden Treasures

LIBYANS ARE INCREDIBLY HOSPITABLE PEOPLE WHO LOVE FOREIGNERS AND WERE GENUINELY DELIGHTED TO SEE US. IN THE ARAB WORLD, GUESTS ARE CONSIDERED A GIFT FROM GOD, AND WE WERE TRULY WELCOMED THAT WAY EVERYWHERE WE WENT

All Photos:

Jovana

Kvržić

ation and are still free from mass tourism. On our visit, the only other tourists were a small group from Russia, whom we met at every site. This enhanced the experience, as there were no crowds or inappropriate tourist behaviour.

As for the food, Libyan cuisine is diverse and, at times, similar to ours. I enjoyed everything I tried, and picking just one favourite is hard. If I had to choose, I’d say the Libyan sweets were the highlight.

LIBYAN CUISINE IS DIVERSE AND, AT TIMES, SIMILAR TO OURS, SO I ENJOYED EVERYTHING I TRIED, MAKING IT HARD TO SINGLE OUT JUST ONE THING. IF I HAD TO CHOOSE, IT WOULD BE THE LIBYAN SWEETS

Do you find similarities between the Serbian and Libyan people and cultures?

Libyans are hospitable people who love foreigners and are genuinely delighted whenever they see us. In the Arab world, guests are considered a gift from God, and we were truly welcomed that way everywhere we went. Everyone offered us tea, coffee, and sweets; some even invited us to dinner in their homes. This openness and hospitality are the most significant similarities between our peoples. Interestingly, many Libyans speak a bit of our language because many studied in Serbia, and many people from our region have worked and continue to work in Libya. We also met our ambassador in Libya, who confirmed that he feels great as a foreigner and has no issues.

Do you think Libya could become the “next big thing” in tourism once more people discover it?

As more travellers are drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations, I’m confident that Libya will initially appeal to those seeking a bit of adrenaline and eventually attract all kinds of tourists. If the security situation in the country remains stable, I foresee a bright future for Libyan tourism, which the country truly deserves. Libya is an affordable destination with decent hotels and well-maintained roads, meaning the tourism infrastructure is already well-established.

LEPTIS MAGNA UNVEILED, A JEWEL OF ROMAN AFRICA

Exploring the rise, glory, and rediscovery of Libya’s timeless archaeological treasure

When the Romans conquered Carthage (present-day Tunis), they destroyed it in an unreasonably vengeful rage. However, they soon needed a port west of Alexandria, and their choice fell on Leptis Magna—a magnificent city now reduced to ruins.

In 146 AD, Septimius Severus was born in Leptis into the family of a wealthy Punic merchant. As a young boy, he was sent to Roman schools and was referred to as the “True African” at the time—fluent in Punic but struggling with Latin. However, this bright young man was quickly noticed. He advanced so much at the imperial court within a few years that he became emperor. He was the first emperor born in the provinces outside Italy since Hadrian and Trajan. As mentioned, he was Punic—a people formed by blending Carthaginians and Berbers.

Septimius Severus, who ruled from 193 to 211 AD, enjoyed immense popularity due to his military successes, particularly those in the Parthian Empire from 194 to 195 AD. His reign marked an architectural renaissance for Leptis Magna. To be more precise, he was the one who transformed it. The city grew so much that it earned the title “Magna” to distinguish it from another town of the same name, which was not graced with imperial grandeur.

Everything that still captivates visitors today—partially excavated and largely ruined—was constructed during this period. Leptis Magna stands as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of its former glory, echoing the splendour of an era when it was at its zenith.

HOW

IT ALL bEGAN

Leptis Magna started as a Phoenician colony, thriving in trade with luxury goods from Africa: ivory, ebony, gold, enslaved people, and wild animals for the circus. Specifically, it was founded by the Phoenicians from Tyre (modern-day Lebanon) and named “Lepki.” Typical of the Phoenicians, they had little love for vowels in speech and writing. Later, the Romans conquered the city and gave it the Latin name “Leptis.” Since

THE

EMPEROR’S MILITARY SUCCESSES TRIGGERED

A DRAMATIC

CONSTRUCTION

BOOM IN ROME AS WELL AS IN HIS HOMETOWN, WHICH IS NOW A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE, LARGELY THANKS TO HIM

there was another Leptis, this grand city of 50,000 inhabitants became known as Leptis Magna (Great Leptis), while the other, near Tunis, was called Leptis Minor.

As skilled merchants, the Phoenicians produced goods “for everyone,” constantly aware of and adapting to market demands. However, Rome triumphed in the centuries-long struggle for control over the central Mediterranean, imposing its rule and traditions. Over time, Leptis Magna transformed into a classic Roman city with two main streets—Cardo and Decumanus—along with theatres, marketplaces, public baths, toilets, a bustling port, and plenty of sun, olives, cheese, and wine.

LEPTIS MAGNA REMAINS ONE OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES FROM ANTIQUITY AND A TRUE GEM OF LIBYAN CULTURE—A MUST-VISIT DESTINATION FOR EVERY TRAVELLER!

The city was home to descendants of the Phoenicians, Roman colonists, and local Berbers who came from the hinterlands to settle in the new prosperous town.

Leptis Magna flourished most significantly from 193 AD when Emperor Septimius Severus—himself of Punic origin and born in the city—elevated it to prominence. During his reign, Leptis Magna stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Alexandria and Carthage.

However, in 365 AD, a devastating tsunami triggered by a massive earthquake struck the city, leaving it in ruins and beginning its decline.

THE ERA OF GREAT GLORY

Septimius Severus was not the first to recognise the significance of Leptis Magna. Emperor Hadrian had already bestowed magnificent gifts upon the city, including stunning baths, two grand temples overlooking the harbour, and a vast thermae. However, Severus gave the city its final touch of brilliance.

As declared emperor by his troops, Septimius Severus’s reign brought a dramatic construction boom in Rome and his hometown of Leptis Magna, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, largely thanks to his legacy. Among his architectural achievements, built to commemorate his Parthian victories, were two arches in Rome and one in Leptis Magna. While the exact date remains uncertain, it is widely accepted that the Arch of Septimius Severus in Leptis Magna was erected during his African tour in 203 AD. Though the arch had fallen into

ruins, it was reassembled by Italian archaeologists after its discovery in 1928.

Constructed as a tetrapylon, the four-sided arch marked the intersection of the city’s two most important streets: Cardo, running north-south, and Decumanus Maximus, the eastwest thoroughfare of this once-prominent Roman port city in Africa. The city and the arch fell into decline and were abandoned following barbarian invasions. Later, Emperor Justinian repurposed sculptures from the arch for his grand basilica.

The rivalry of wealthy families often drove the construction of grand buildings in Leptis Magna. Competing for prestige, they spared no expense in acquiring the finest marble and hiring the best artists. One affluent patron, Hannibal Therapion Rufus, astounded his fellow citizens by financing a theatre adorned with statues and a city market featuring two elegant octagonal pavilions surrounded by numerous stalls. Meanwhile, the Flavii family was responsible for the city’s magnificent massive amphitheatre.

At its height, Leptis Magna and its inhabitants seemed to have the world at their feet, a testament to their glory during Severus’s reign.

THE FALL OF LEPTIS MAGNA AND ITS REDISCOVERY

Like so many other great cities, Leptis Magna was powerless against the forces of nature. In 365 AD, after a prolonged crisis and declining trade, the town was struck by a devastating earthquake followed by a tsunami. What remained was only a shadow of its former glory. Attempts to revive the city under emperors Diocletian and Constantine proved short-lived. The town adopted Christianity during this time, but Roman authority weakened, and Berber raids became more frequent. Trade

LEPTIS MAGNA, ONCE A THRIVING PORT CITY OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE, STANDS AS A TESTAMENT TO ANCIENT

INGENUITY AND SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS’S ENDURING LEGACY

dwindled, the city grew impoverished, and its residents began to leave.

The Vandals conquered Leptis Magna, a Germanic tribe whose destructive interactions with Roman heritage earned their name a lasting association with ruin. However, they soon settled down, adopting Roman lifestyles and customs. In return, the Romans began wearing trousers and growing their hair and beards. But the Berbers from the Sahara saw an opportunity and increasingly targeted the city for plunder. By the late 6th century, only a handful of residents remained. When the Muslims conquered the area in 647 AD, they found a small Byzantine garrison of 1,000 soldiers. The conquerors decided to settle nearby, founding the city of Homs. Stones from Leptis Magna were repurposed for their new homes, and subsequent earthquakes destroyed much of the ancient city.

Excavations began after World War I, but Italian archaeologists discovered only 25% of the city before the outbreak of World War II.

Today, Leptis Magna remains one of the most significant archaeological sites from antiquity and a true gem of Libyan culture—a must-see destination for any traveller!

THE ARCH OF SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS Leptis Magna, Libya

Photo:

LIbYAN DESERT

Photo: Jovana Kvržić